A BRIEF HISTORY
Studio 54 is a legend, and no other club will ever be like it. It is truly the mother of all clubs. The building itself is history. The decor and architectural style of its balconies, ceilings, columns, and artwork speak for themselves...and whisper of the never-to-be-forgotten parties they bore witness to. The building used to be home to the old CBS TV studio that housed 'What's My Line', as well as many others, so the building itself dates way back.

In the 1970's, 2 entrepreneurs were busy trying to find a place where they could cash in on the wave of change - Steve Rubell and Ian Schrager. There dream became a reality in the spring on 1977 when they opened "Studio 54". It's greatest days ended abruptly in 1980 - but new ownership allowed the club to remain open until 1986. Many people had the once-in-a-lifetime chance to be a part of the biggest party probably ever thrown in New York City. There never was anything like it before and there will never be anything like it again. Studio 54 was a brief period in the history of American Culture that makes it so remarkable.

So, what exactly was -- and is -- Studio 54? Well, Studio 54 will forever reign as the hottest, most elite and outrageous, one-of-a-kind "mother of all nightclubs". During its early reign, Studio 54 was like real-life theatre, with a fascinating cast of characters being selected for each night's grand cabaret performance party from the multitudes clamouring to get past the famed velvet ropes. Celebrities galore made the VIP guest list, posed for the paparazzi, often disappearing from sight into the notoriously infamous basement of the club. Many others were turned away, dubbed by co-owner Steve Rubell as the "gray people", and gaining entry into Studio 54 became an almost spiritual quest for many hungering to be a part of the "beautiful crowd". Recording artist Cher was once shocked after being turned away from the glittering nightspot. She exclaimed, "But I'm CHER!" The sharp reply being, "I KNOW who you are!" Celebrity status itself did not guarantee entry into the exclusive '70s party palace or inclusion in the inner circle of Studio's VIP list.

Sunday, May 21: For one Sunday only in Washington DC, Corrosion is proud to bring you a special night filled with "fabulousness", as a tribute to Studio 54's heyday in the 70's and early 80's. We searched for the famous "moon with the spoon", but alas, it wasn't to be found...but you'll have such a great time listening to tunes from the era, sipping on special drink offerings, and breaking into full "hustle" mode, you won't need it! Click here for all the details.